What To Do After An Auto Accident In Illinois

Steps To Take In The Aftermath

Your actions after an accident can have an impact on the overall outcome of your case. If your family member or companion in your car died or is too injured to cooperate, you may be able to get a head start on your case as follows:

• If possible, move your crashed car out of lanes of traffic.
• Check to see if anyone in the car or outside the car appears to be seriously injured. If someone in your car is bleeding and you can reach them, tie a shirt or something to stop the bleeding.
• Call for help if your car is immobilized or if anyone may be injured. Call 911 and prepare to cooperate with police, firefighters or emergency medical technicians who may arrive soon. If you do not have access to a cellphone, try to get someone outside your car to make a call.
• As soon as you have a chance, exchange contact information and car registration information with the driver(s) of any other vehicle(s) involved.
• If you were a bicyclist or pedestrian or if one was involved in your crash, get their name and contact information. You may find it in a police report.
• If a tow truck hauls your car away, ask the driver or the police where it will be taken. If possible, take pictures of your crashed car before it is removed from the scene.
• Take pictures of the scene of the accident and your fresh injuries, if applicable. Also, take notes or create a voice recording including all details that you recall. Do not share your photos, notes or voice recording with anyone but a lawyer.
• Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as you can, but do not give a recorded statement or answer detailed questions about what happened before getting legal counsel.

For more personalized advice, consult with an auto accident attorney.